Alfred Sant’s ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ Now in English
In the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta, at the Misraħ Kuncizzjoni, a literary gem has been unearthed. Alfred Sant’s seminal novel, ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’, is now available in English, opening up a new world of Maltese literature to the island’s international community and beyond.
Unveiling a Maltese Masterpiece
First published in Maltese in 1995, ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ (English: ‘A Cross on the Land’) is a novel that has left an indelible mark on Maltese literature. Now, thanks to the efforts of Merlin Publishers, this masterpiece is available in English, transcending linguistic barriers and inviting the world to explore Malta’s rich cultural tapestry.
From Maltese to the World
The English translation, skilfully rendered by award-winning translator Joe Aquilina, promises to introduce Sant’s unique narrative style and profound insights into Maltese society to a global audience. The novel, set against the backdrop of Malta’s political and social upheavals of the 1980s, offers a poignant exploration of identity, power, and change.
For Maltese readers, this English edition serves as a reminder of the wealth and depth of local literature. It’s a call to celebrate and engage with our literary heritage, to appreciate the stories that shape our collective identity. For international readers, it’s an invitation to look Malta’s complex history and culture, to understand the island’s transformation from a colonial outpost to a modern, progressive nation.
Alfred Sant: A Literary Giant
Alfred Sant, a former Prime Minister of Malta, is also a literary giant. His works, including ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’, ‘Il-Gżira’ (The Island), and ‘Is-Sriep Reġgħu Saru Velis’ (The Crocodiles Are Screaming), have left an indelible mark on Maltese literature. His ability to weave together political intrigue, social commentary, and profound human insight has earned him a place among Malta’s literary greats.
In an interview with Hot Malta, Sant reflected on the English translation of ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’, saying, “I’m delighted that ‘A Cross on the Land’ will now reach a wider audience. It’s a story about Malta, but it’s also a story about power, about how we navigate our lives in a complex world. I hope it will resonate with readers, wherever they may be.”
